Last week I got to talk with a homeschool group about book publishing. It was so much fun, and they had so many good questions! One was, “Once I create my book, where do I sell it?” In other words, “How do I get people to buy my book?”
I’m glad they asked, and I thought you might be wondering too. Here are some things I’ve learned and some of my favorite options.
Amazon KDP
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again. I love Amazon KDP. It’s easy for first-time authors to get their books uploaded and online. But I also love it because Amazon reaches over 80% of people who buy books. They also offer Expanded Distribution if you commit to distributing your book exclusively through Amazon. (Which may or may not be right for you.) If you are self-publishing, get your book on Amazon KDP! (And enjoy this checklist of things you’ll need ready to list your book on Amazon KDP!)
Ingram Spark
Ingram Spark is another platform that allows self-published authors to get their books online. As of this month, they no longer charge fees to upload your book and delay charging you for changes to your content, which makes it more appealing. (Amazon KDP does not charge for these changes.) Ingram Spark, however, is more meant to make your book available to retailers versus consumers browsing online. If you want to expand your reach without committing to Amazon’s Expanded Distribution program, try Ingram Spark.
Draft2Digital
I haven’t given Draft2Digital a try yet. I will. This is another way to help your book reach a wider audience. When you hear about the big three distribution platforms, you’ll hear about Amazon KDP, Ingram Spark, and Draft 2 Digital. Check this one out.
Online Printers
If you want to purchase custom copies of your books or hold inventory to sell, online printers may be for you. I have worked with Printing Center USA, SmartPress, and vistaprint, among others. I’m happiest with the print quality I get from Printing Center USA; however, I tend to use Vista Print when creating promotional print products since they typically have cost-saving promotions available to buyers.
Having copies of your book is great if you want to sell your books at events, school or bookstore readings, and various other events. However, you can also purchase printed “Author Copies” at cost from the distributors like Amazon and Ingram Spark, who you already work with.
One of my favorite things about working with online printers is that it allows you to be innovative with book sales. For instance, I offer fun and creative marketing solutions to optometrists, pediatricians, schools, and churches that purchase bulk and white-labeled books. This helps businesses foster client relationships and market their business while I have some flexibility in getting them the best quality and price for their needs.
Book Retailers
Despite having most of my books listed in Ingram Spark, I haven’t found retailers knocking down my door with orders yet. Once your books are on platforms like Ingram Spark, I recommend contacting local bookstores and libraries to generate interest in your book. The larger retailers, like Barnes & Noble and Half Price Books, will kindly refer you to generic email addresses or phone numbers. (Which completely makes sense… imagine the volume of inquiries they receive!) However, smaller bookstores will purchase directly from you if your content matches their product line.
One Last Tip
Books sales can take time. But select some distribution methods that work for you and stick with them. You can adapt or try something new when you need to make changes. The key is to remain visible. You’re book is amazing! You just have to figure out the right distribution system for you.
So, what do you think? How will you sell your book?
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Great advice, Beth! You rock!
I have a rockin’ good teacher. 😉